RATIO designed this branch for the SASCU with the vision to create a new branch that represents their unique relationship with the Shuswap region. It was built using regional materials and sustainable principles, and would become a blueprint for the future of their brand and branches. A major feature of the building is a public atrium that serves as an open public space for meetings and gatherings. It was designed with a heavy influence from the Salmon Arm pier — one of the longest piers in North America. RATIO’s Mike Mammone said: “SASCU is an organization that’s heavily invested in community,” he says. “We wanted this building to really embody that spirit of community, of people, and planet. We wanted it to be as sustainable as possible.”

The predominant use of wood was instrumental in this project. In addition to offsetting the building’s carbon footprint, the use of wood and wood systems allowed the project to use a very local labour pool of carpenters, trades and skill that contributed directly to the local manufacturing, supply chains and business of the interior of BC economy. Earlier this year, RATIO was awarded two 2014 BC Wood Design Awards in for this project: the Commercial Wood Design award; and RATIO principal Mike Mammone was honoured with the Architect Award.

SASCU CEO Michael Wagner says its members and staff are very proud of the new branch. “It’s a beautiful building that we believe sets a new benchmark for future development in the Shuswap,” he said in a statement.

About the Awards: Commercial and industrial properties from every corner of the Thompson, Okanagan and Kootenay regions were represented as finalists in the Sixth Annual Southern Interior Construction Association Commercial Building Awards held October 23 in Kelowna.